Rumours that both T-Mobile and Orange were looking at supplying the iPhone once O2's exclusivity contract runs out in October has been confirmed in part today as Orange announced its deal with Apple.

"Orange UK and Apple have reached an agreement to bring iPhone 3G and 3GS to Orange UK customers later this year," a statement from Orange regarding the deal, which is likely to be a very important step in the company's immediate future, reads.

"Orange, which has the largest 3G network covering more people in the UK than any other operator, will sell iPhone in all Orange direct channels including Orange shops, the Orange webshop and Orange telesales channels, as well as selected high street partners."

Alongside Orange enjoying the largest 3G network coverage, its plans also suggest that the iPhone will receive five greater proliferation than it has with O2.

Orange's high street presence and its retail partnerships could mean are vastly renewed UK interest in Apple's handset; especially if the proposed partnership with T-Mobile to goes ahead.

No contract or pricing details have been revealed as yet, though users can register their interest now on the official Orange website.